All we want is to carry out the greatest expression of a free democracy and vote on Catalonia's future. This is not about independence: it is about fundamental civil rights and the universal right of self-determination.

In this quote, Carles Puigdemont emphasizes the desire of the people of Catalonia to have the right to decide their own future through a democratic process. He clarifies that the movement is not solely about independence, but rather about the fundamental civil rights of the people of Catalonia, particularly their universal right of self-determination. Puigdemont argues that this right is a core principle of democracy and should be respected by the international community.

Puigdemont’s statement suggests that the push for a vote on Catalonia’s future is grounded in the idea of autonomy and the desire to have a say in decisions that directly affect their political, social, and economic lives. By framing the issue as one of civil rights, he appeals to the broader notion of personal freedom and democracy, highlighting that the people of Catalonia are merely seeking the ability to make decisions for themselves in a democratic manner.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Puigdemont’s role as the former president of Catalonia during the region’s bid for independence from Spain in 2017. His leadership in organizing a referendum on independence sparked significant political tension, both within Catalonia and with the Spanish government. Puigdemont has consistently framed the push for independence as a matter of democratic rights rather than a purely political or separatist agenda.

Ultimately, Puigdemont’s words underscore the belief that self-determination is a core democratic principle that should be available to all peoples. His emphasis on the civil rights of Catalonia’s citizens reflects his broader political ideology that prioritizes democracy, autonomy, and the right of people to govern themselves without external interference.